ADLP 7004 Problem Solving Through Critical Thinking

In an era of uncertainty and disruptions, being able to identify, formulate, and solve problems is a critical leadership competency. In fact, among the many facets of leadership, solving the wrong problem is among the most common, costly, and consequential. Research shows that leaders and teams end up solving the wrong problem >75% of the time. Leaders who master various thinking modes critical, strategic, and systems will significantly improve an organizations capability of solving the right problem, a strategic imperative in todays environment. Students will learn the attributes of wicked, ill-defined, complex problems and how to recognize them. This recognition is important because wicked problems are the ones that can easily spark thinking traps or cognitive fixedness - that prompt solving the wrong problem. These traps cause people to quickly think of and promote solutions to old problems rather than identify the novel elements of the problem that require different answers. Students will be equipped with tools to recognize thinking traps and intervention strategies. Also, students will learn several thinking processes and tools to formulate wicked problems comprehensively. Each thinking process is designed to specifically avoid the thinking traps and promote comprehensive formulation before trying to solve the problem. Students will have the opportunity to apply new tools and processes in real-world situations, reflect upon the results, and develop mastery in problem-solving.